Wat Pariwat Ratchasongkram
A Buddhist temple in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district, Wat Pariwat is renowned for its gilded statue of David Beckham, placed among traditional mythological guardians. A place of authentic and unexpected devotion.
Wat Pariwat Ratchasongkram stands in the Khlong Toei district, south of Bangkok. This Theravada Buddhist temple is known for a rare architectural curiosity: a statue of David Beckham in footballer's kit stands among the sanctuary's guardians. This blend of traditional devotion and contemporary popular culture makes it a singular destination, far removed from Bangkok's usual tourist circuits.
Practical Information at a Glance
- Admission: free
- Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered; shoes removed before entering sacred buildings
- Suggested duration: 30 to 45 minutes
- Access: Khlong Toei district, reachable by taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorcycle taxi from central Bangkok
What to See
The temple follows classical Thai architecture: multi-tiered roofs adorned with glazed tiles, gilded façades, and statues of yaksha guardians. The ubosot (ordination hall) houses a revered Buddha image worshipped by the neighbourhood's devotees.
The site's distinctive feature lies in the atypical guardian statues arranged around the complex. Among them stands a representation of David Beckham in football kit, positioned alongside traditional mythological figures. This initiative by the local clergy illustrates how Thai Buddhism sometimes incorporates popular figures considered bearers of good fortune.
History and Context
The temple is an active neighbourhood establishment, frequented primarily by Khlong Toei residents. The Beckham statue was installed in the 2000s, when the footballer was at the peak of his global popularity. The monk responsible for its installation wished to attract young devotees and channel positive energy associated with sporting success. This practice of integrating contemporary icons remains marginal but is not without precedent in Thai temples.
Highlights of Your Visit
The David Beckham Statue
Painted in gold and dressed in a football shirt, the statue stands proudly among the mythological guardians. It draws photographers and the curious, yet remains a sincere object of devotion for some local devotees who offer it garlands of flowers.
The Ubosot and Main Buildings
The ordination hall maintains a contemplative atmosphere. Murals and gilded ornaments testify to the care the local community devotes to the temple's upkeep.
Daily Temple Life
On weekdays, monks and neighbourhood devotees move through an authentic atmosphere, free from tourist crowds. Observing morning offerings or prayer rituals offers a concrete picture of living Buddhism in Bangkok.
Etiquette and Visiting Rules
- Cover shoulders and knees before entering; sarongs may be borrowed at some temple entrances, but it's better to arrive properly dressed.
- Remove shoes before entering the ubosot and sacred buildings.
- Speak softly and do not turn your back to Buddha images for photographs.
- Women should not touch monks or hand them objects directly.
Photography Tips
Morning light is most favourable for photographing gilded roofs without backlighting. The Beckham statue is typically in a shaded area; slight overexposure may be necessary. Avoid photographing worshippers in prayer without their consent.
Location and Access
Wat Pariwat is located in the Khlong Toei district, southeast of central Bangkok. The area is served by the Khlong Toei MRT station, a short walk or motorcycle taxi ride from the temple. By taxi from Sukhumvit or Silom, the journey is short depending on traffic.
The temple is near Lumphini Park and the Silom district, making it possible to combine your visit with a stroll through this vibrant area of Bangkok.
Nearby Attractions
- Lumphini Park — a large green space in the heart of Bangkok, ideal for a break after visiting the temple.
- Or Tor Kor Market — one of Bangkok's best-stocked fresh produce markets, a few kilometres to the north.
- Silom District — a business and nightlife hub, with temples and restaurants within easy reach.
Frequently asked questions
Admission is free. As in most neighbourhood temples in Bangkok, no entrance fee is charged to visitors.
Khlong Toei MRT station is the most convenient access point. A taxi or motorcycle taxi from Sukhumvit or Silom is also a quick option depending on traffic.
Shoulders and knees must be covered. Wear shoes that are easy to remove, as they must be taken off before entering sacred buildings.
Yes, photography is permitted in outdoor areas. Inside the ubosot, remain discreet and avoid photographing worshippers in prayer without their consent.
Thirty to forty-five minutes are sufficient to explore the complex. The temple combines easily with a visit to Lumphini Park or Silom district on the same half-day.
It draws some visitors curious about the Beckham statue, but remains above all an active neighbourhood temple. The atmosphere here is far more local and authentic than at Bangkok's major tourist sites.
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